Baltimore County has announced a new resource designed to help residents, businesses, and developers navigate the permitting process more efficiently.
The Department of Permits, Approvals, and Inspections (PAI) has established a Permits, Approvals, and Inspections Ombudsman position to assist applicants who may be unsure how to begin the permitting process, need help identifying the correct contacts, or are experiencing challenges moving a project forward. The new role is intended to serve as a neutral resource that helps applicants better understand requirements, resolve delays, and connect with the appropriate departments involved in permit review.
Key responsibilities of the permitting Ombudsman include:
- Guiding applicants through permitting requirements, timelines and documentation
- Troubleshooting issues such as unclear requirements, stalled applications or cross‑department coordination
- Improving communication between applicants and reviewing departments
- Identifying systemic challenges and recommending improvements
- Ensuring fairness and transparency throughout the permitting journey
Alongside the announcement the county has named Lauren LeVardi, who brings more than five years of permitting and customer service experience, to serve in the post.